The Career Destinations program at DCMO BOCES hosted a full day event at each of their two campuses last week. The Career Connections event gathered representatives from over 35 businesses and organizations. They joined over 400 students from 16 school districts for a day of career exploration, job preparation and information on local higher education opportunities. The event took place on Wednesday, January 24 at the Harrold Campus in Sidney Center, and on Thursday, January 25 at the Pole Campus in Norwich.
The Career Connections event was developed to expand student’s awareness of local jobs and career opportunities, learn from professionals about career preparation skills and expand relationships between DCMO BOCES instructors and local employers. Students began their day at their Technical Education classroom, where their first session was connected to the industry needs and opportunities for their trade. Students then rotated to participate in two additional breakout sessions, choosing the topics and presentations that best benefitted their career preparation goals.
Presenters were encouraged to begin with an industry outlook, to help students understand their industry’s needs in terms of skills, the jobs of the future, and the challenges companies are facing recruiting employees. Employers also explained the critical skills needed for the jobs, and discussed what other qualities they look for in a new hire. There was an emphasis on career pathways, or opportunities for advancement within the different companies, and many presenters shared their own individual career story to illustrate the opportunities to grow a career without having to leave an organization. Organizers hope that students will be inspired to find rewarding jobs and career opportunities locally.
Businesses and organizations participating in the Career Connections event included the U.S. Army, U.S. Army National Guard, Mohawk Valley Community College Aviation Training Center, United Health Services, Norwich Tire Company, Barrett Paving Materials, Sidney Federal Credit Union, Laborers' Local 785, Ironworkers Local 60, Visions Federal Credit Union, Optum Insight, Lindsey Equipment, ARC Otsego, Oneonta Lemon Tree, New York Central Mutual Insurance Company, Chobani, Solitude Farmz, The Arc Otsego, Chase Memorial Nursing and Rehabilitation, Bassett Healthcare, Chenango County Human Resources, Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, Delaware County Court, Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, Casella Waste Management, New York State Department of Transportation, DCMO BOCES Print Shop and the Raymond Corporation.